Alert residents help thwart car break-ins in Saanich

The investment of a security camera paid off for a Saanich apartment building after residents helped nab two young people trying to break into cars.

The 3200-block Rutledge Street complex installed a camera in its secured underground garage in recent weeks due to a rash of vehicle break-ins.

One of those residents was diligently watching the live surveillance feed at 3:30 a.m. this morning while working out of town, and spotted two people walk into the garage and start peering into vehicles.

That person called up two residents at the apartment, who called Saanich police.

“The residents went downstairs and made some noise and opened the garage door,” said Sgt. Steve Eassie. “The suspects went into hiding, and the police arrived right behind.”

Police arrested a 21-year-old Saanich man for breaking and entering. He had break in tools and bear spray in his possession, and was breaching court ordered conditions.

A building resident soon spotted the second suspect hiding in another part of the garage – a 17-year-old girl from Colwood, who was also breaking court ordered conditions.

The female was released and is due in court in April. The male is in custody and is due in court today.

Eassie said the residents constantly updated police using a cellphone as they entered the parking garage, which was critical in helping nab the young duo.

“Without the assistance of the public in this case, it is possible that the suspects

may have eluded capture and committed further crime throughout the early